Medical Imaging Technologist (VIC)

Education and Training:

To become a medical imaging technologist you usually have to study medical radiation science at university. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your VCE. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, mathematics, biology and physics are normally required. You may be required to complete a questionnaire and attend an interview. In some cases, you will also need a current Australian National Police Check and a recognised Senior First Aid Certificate. A number of universities in Australia offer degrees in medical radiation science. Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Additional Information:

Depending on the length of the university course, some graduates are required to complete a year of clinical practice in an accredited radiology department. Those completing a 4-year degree with the necessary clinical component are not required to undertake this additional year. On successful completion of the year, the graduate must apply for accreditation from the Australian Institute of Radiography, and also apply to the relevant state or territory regulating authority for registration or licensing to practise as a medical imaging technologist.

From July 2012, all practitioners working in the medical radiation field will be included in the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme for selected health professions. See the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency's website (www.ahpra.gov.au) for more information.

Related Courses:

While the following courses are related to this occupation, they may not necessarily lead directly to employment, nor provide the most direct pathway to the occupation. Courses which provide preliminary or informal training, as well as those which provide additional job skills following initial qualifications may also be listed.

*Course is offered by more than one institution. Click link for details.

Employment Opportunities:

Medical imaging technologists are employed in public and private hospitals and private radiology practices.

Demand for medical imaging technologists has grown over the past few years. This has mainly been due to new and expanding techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound, which aid in the diagnosis and treatment of various medical conditions.